Sebring Cluster EL Backlighting Repair

[@jeffescortlx]

For contact information follow this link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipCViKGAgtiNl7c

[@tuco0721]

Man you make it look so easy I wish I can do that 👍

[@subigirlawd_7307]

Awesome as always sensei

[@podunkpennsylvania292]

Excellent information and skill.Thank you for posting this video.I just had one of the apart and it worked for a day then quit. I reflowed quite a few things. I guess I get to go back in and do the IC you showed

[@robtemple3445]

Thanks Jeff, Nice work as always!

[@williebeverly9307]

Watched your sebring backlight fix. How much is your service and how do I contact you?

[@jblade8252]

How did you test the board to figure out it was that driver chip and not another component. Showing how you test and where and what your looking for is a lot more interesting than just soldering stuff to a board... still an informative video and still a thumbs up keep up the good work!!!

[@jeffescortlx]

With this board it's pretty much always that inverter chip. It's never not been that chip for me.

[@townsend420mt]

What type of v12 led lights do you use and where would someone like for them. Im wanting to put LEDs in everything for my interior. I got a 2001 Silverado 1500 ls model

[@mustardbackpack]

Awesome video, very helpful and exactly what I'm looking for. I have a 2010 dodge caravan with the same issue, same ic.

[@roosterhunter6245]

Just found your channel. This stuff is fascinating. It blows my mind how you can identify bad components. I would look at that with a blank face and not a clue how to fix it.

[@jeffescortlx]

It's surprising how far just using google can get a person with figuring out repairs. Experience and training is important to, but google searching can do a lot.

[@eddiereichel9354]

Hey if you ever need any wiring diagrams I have access to Mitchell on demand. Also BBB industries has most wiring diagram for a lot of vehicles.

[@andrewk778]

Nice technique. Thank you for sharing.

[@autotechmike]

Where can I get that chip all I see is after market eld5 stuff I want oem I'm a certified auto tech attempted to reflow didn't work.

[@jeffescortlx]

No, a reflow is not going to work. It's not joint failure, but chip failure. UTSOURCE sells them.

[@autotechmike]

@@jeffescortlx thank you I'll check them out. I found out it the reflow didn't work it was working every now and then on low. Now she doesn't work at all. I've been looking at these el inverters as well some one on a forum said you could tap into the clock desolder the el connector and safe that for later to hook your new inverter to then get your power from the clock. I've got a used board coming so I'm going to do some testing. Any certain temp you don't want to exceed putting that chip in with

[@jeffescortlx]

@@autotechmike stealing high voltage from the clock sounds hacky. I can't imagine they engineered the extra compensation needed to drive a larger EL panel. The EL chips are still available and not that exspensive. It's not that hard to fix it right if you have experience with SMD chips. Just don't pull any pads or delamitate the PCB with too much heat for too long.

[@autotechmike]

@@jeffescortlx that's what I thought it seemed hacky I checked that website do they have a different part number. I really don't want to buy those kits you see on Ebay for 100 dollars I got a used cluster and plugged it in and it works I had to program the mileage but now I want to fix the other one to have a spare you can email at [e-mail] if you don't want to put out all your part supplier info on KZbin comments.

[@jeffescortlx]

@@autotechmike I list the part number at 0:17 in the video.

[@chuckpatten7855]

Have you tried tin lead paste solder for your hot air repairs? You can load it into syringes and then just draw a line of paste across the pads. As the hot air melts the solder it is drawn onto the pads by capillary attraction and provides the perfect amount for each connection. This lets you set the part down into place without having to futz around with it as the solder melts.

[@jeffescortlx]

Yes I have and yes I've tried it. But I just find myself going back to tinning the pads with regular solder.

[@JimNichols]

Working solder joints you can't even see must be an X power.... I repaired boards in EMD SD 40s (locomotives) but the traces are the size of toothpicks and I used 22 gauge wire soldered from component pad to component pad then attached with shellac.... but blind solder joints must be tough..... hats off to you man...

[@jeffescortlx]

It's amazing what a person can pull off with a good microscope! Steady hand helps and some practice. 10 years ago I never would have guessed I'd be doing stuff this small.

[@ODCDragon88]

OMG, I forgot to get with the post master this week!! My bad, will do that Friday morning.

[@eddiereichel9354]

What that your sending him something?

[@Tomcsiboy]

Hi, does this chip (D306A) working on Dodge Caliber instrument cluster?

[@jeffescortlx]

Yes

[@PeteyG708]

Nice work!

[@lSil3ntZer0l]

@ jeffescortlx Wow, you have no idea how helpful this is and the timing is great! The lights just stopped working in my 07' Sebring this month and have been looking around for a fix. The most popular seems to be the ELD5 module that you add to the back of the cluster.The only thing I don't like about it is that it requires cutting some of the PCB traces. But if I have to, I'll do it. I do have some questions, if you wouldn't mind giving me your input. 1) Would you recommend doing this [what was in your video], or should I just purchase the ELD5 inverter? 2) Did you actually replace the chip, or will resoldering the chip back on be sufficient? IF you did replace the chip, would you be so kind as to show me the link to the part? I'm fairly new to soldering, but I'm confident I could pull this off if it means not cutting traces, or spending $500 on a new cluster that will end up doing the same thing.

[@jeffescortlx]

1) I would reccomended professional installation for either/or of the two options. 2) yes you'll need to replace the chip. It has failed/fried completely when it's to the point of no longer working. Soldering back on a fried chip won't fix it.

[@lSil3ntZer0l]

jeffescortlx Thank you very much for your response! Of course you have to replace it, I realize this was a stupid question; it was 3:00am. Lol. Thank you for your time. Could you send me a link to the part you used?

[@jeffescortlx]

@@lSil3ntZer0l I don't have a link, but I did get it from contacting the manufacturer directly. Part number is at 0:18

[@lSil3ntZer0l]

jeffescortlx Would this be it? www.rogerscorp.com/documents/27/durel/DUREL-D306A-EL-Lamp-Driver-with-Microcontroller.aspx This seems to be what you’re talking about. I can’t find it elsewhere. Not even Mouser Electronics.

[@Nanook236]

Thanks for all you videos. Problem: Intermittent gauges. All gauges come on or off especially during cold weather . took apart and reflowed some of the common failure points. This didn’t help. The gauges still intermittently work. Any thoughts, leads? I want to take my bench top 12v supply and rule out a bad connection elsewhere, BUT i dont know how to set up a 12v connection. Have you ever thought about doing a video on hoe to setup power to gauges? Thanks for any help?

[@jeffescortlx]

I don't know what kind of vehicle you have, but I'll guess 03-04 Full size GM. They are good for hiding bad joints everywhere. It's worth looking for tin whiskers on the back side.

[@Nanook236]

jeffescortlx yes 03 suburban. Sorry im not sure about Tin whiskers? I will look for any abnormalities in the solder. Any more advice would be appreciated. Thanks

[@Nanook236]

jeffescortlx ok i just google tin whiskers, got it

[@mattweibert60]

Hello. I found a local guy that is willing to do the soldering and replacement work for me. But he needs to know what parts. How did you figure out what parts to use?

[@jeffescortlx]

I figured out what parts to use by googling the part number I found on the chip.

[@brentnearhood8874]

Thank you Jeff! that was good information.

[@mattweibert60]

Sorry i now see the D306A driver chip. The person that wants to do the rep. Air for me also wants me to get the ones on either side. To help simplify the repair for him. Do you have a stomach that might tell what these other 2 chips are?

[@jeffescortlx]

I'm not sure what parts on the other side you're talking about? I wouldn't recommend to replace parts that have nothing wrong with them. The more parts that are replaced the more likely something can go wrong.

[@mattweibert60]

There are some type of chip or part on either side that he said with the heat he would apply to get the one off, it would be best to replace those at the same time.

[@jeffescortlx]

@@mattweibert60 I've been doing these clusters for years and I never had any issues with the surrounding components. There are no components directly behind the EL chip, just 4 via feed throughs for heat dissipation. You might want to find someone that has experience with this particular repair.

[@timmyo571]

Sorry i didn't notice that you answer my already. thanks... great video

[@larswilhelmsen4250]

Hi! I like your video! Really, I do! Which 04842345AA you meant? I found: QFN ; QFN16 ; QFN #A6-4 ; QFN #A6-37 ; QFN #A6-38 ; QFN #D7* ; QFN16, #F7 ; QFN16, #D5 ; QFN16, #E2 ; QFN16, New #F14* ; QFN16, #A6-29* and more... Are you able to help my finding a decision? And how to find out the correct direction of the piece? (upside-down / left 90° / right 90°)? Best regards from Germany! Lars

[@jeffescortlx]

The chip package is QFN 16. I'm not sure where you're getting these other numbers from. The generic part number is D603A. As far as orientation goes, you have to pay attention before you move the old chip. If the chip is right side up when you remove it, then you have to put the new one right side up also.

[@larswilhelmsen4250]

​@@jeffescortlx I searched in German ebay and some Chinese dealers are offering the different codes of that OEM-number (04842345AA). Which one should be chosen? Any idea? The shipping needs nearly 3 months (maybe there is not a good market in Europe)!

[@jeffescortlx]

​@@larswilhelmsen4250 I don't know what it is you found. Can you provide a link so I can look at them? You want to make sure you match the part number and physical package size.

[@kenb5564]

My '08 has the issue. I wish I saw this before I broke it down and realized it was difficult reaching the electroluminescent lighting.

[@jeffescortlx]

Does it now have irreversible damage?

[@Airman..]

Nice work 👍

[@Mandoza24]

Hello, i have sebering 2009 with same proleem, what is chip number ? my chip is burn down Thanks

[@jeffescortlx]

Chip number is called out at 0:18

[@alpharaiment1035]

Hey! I’m having the same problem with the backlight on my cluster its a 2010 Sebring would you know any way fixing it since its only compatible up to 09? Thanks In advance!

[@jeffescortlx]

Does your cluster look different than the one in this video?

[@alpharaiment1035]

jeffescortlx It looks the same ! :)

[@jeffescortlx]

@@alpharaiment1035 well maybe this same style carried over to 2010.

[@timmyo571]

Where did you buy the chip from?? What is that part number??

[@rickowens4397]

I always learn interesting stuff with all your videos, Thanks. (Clean-up a few nicks and cuts, and you would be a beautiful Hand Model! 😊)

[@JackRyanHerbert_]

I’m having this problem. The cluster indigo lights won’t come on. What is the name of the chip that I need to buy to replace. I would like to try this. Thanks!

[@jeffescortlx]

0:18

[@jesusrogerio5932]

Hello! I have a Sebring Limited V6 year 2008! Cluster Instruments is not turning on night lighting! How can I do to send it to you?

[@jeffescortlx]

For contact information follow the link in the top pinned comment that says here is the contact information.

[@nickfowler5880]

How or where can I order the replacement chip? I have everything else but don't know what or where to order.

[@jeffescortlx]

I don't believe you'll find any located in the states. You'll need to order it from overseas.

[@stevenmartin4889]

How does one contact you for servicing?

[@christiantovar1391]

Hi Jeffescortlx, I got a replacement cluster for my 08’ Sebring. However, I would like to get the broken one fixed. I’m not in a hurry, I can wait, I know you have a lot of business. Would you take my cluster for repair? Thank you!

[@jeffescortlx]

Sure. My contact information is available in my how to contact video.

[@bradb5445]

i got the exact same one but what do u call the chip u replaced and can i get it on eBay or amazon. thanks from BC Canada

[@jeffescortlx]

0:16 they come and go. I've been hearing they have been getting hard to get a hold of.

[@browntigercat]

jeffescortlx would you tell me the driver IC part number?

[@tete999]

Nice video, please what microscope are you using? Thanks.

[@jeffescortlx]

Link should be in the description.

[@tonyperea8378]

Hey guy I'm one question ,while is the component bad ,the cluster no mark level the gasoline in Caliber 2007 I have this problem,please help

[@tonyperea8378]

Please if having diagram eschematics send me .the cluster caliber 2007

[@jeffescortlx]

Run a gauge sweep test by holding down the trip button when you turn the key on.

[@tonyperea8378]

@@jeffescortlx thanks yes I try it's ok test but only in the test

[@jeffescortlx]

@@tonyperea8378 if the cluster can pass a sweep test than its very unlikely the problem is in the cluster. You probably have a bad sending unit.

[@larraised1983]

Whats the chip you replaced? 315aa 0029 551 ?

[@jeffescortlx]

0:18

[@beckytempleton59]

@jeffescortlx i cant seem to find your contact information, but wanted to know if you'd be willing to repair a cluster with same issue for a 2009 sebring

[@jeffescortlx]

Yes. If you follow the link in the top comment it will bring you a video with a list of technicians in the video description.

[@HETPEZB]

Jeff, what model years are prone to that issue?

[@jeffescortlx]

07-09 are the on-board SMD ones. The older generations have issues too, but it has a separate module that can be replaced.

[@HETPEZB]

jeffescortlx , to power it on the table BCM (or some other modules) is needed?

[@jeffescortlx]

@@HETPEZB if I remember correctly to turn on the back lighting it's looking for a serial bus signal. I don't remember seeing a independent analog input for backlighting.

[@HETPEZB]

jeffescortlx , do you think the signal from the diagnostic scanner may wake it?

[@jeffescortlx]

@@HETPEZB maybe, but I don't have a diagnostic tool for Chrysler. I just plug it back into the car if I can.

[@aresident7745]

jeff do you have one of these for sale ? (fixed)

[@jeffescortlx]

Sorry no, not at this time.

[@arthurrodesiler3109]

You’re getting better at explaining what you are doing. Also would be great to explain what materials you use such as flux and solder type and such. We not as smart as you are...lol And were you can buy stuff if the DIY wants to do things that are more simple so we don’t mess the easy jobs up...lol

[@jeffescortlx]

Links in the description coming soon!

[@arthurrodesiler3109]

@@jeffescortlx Thanks Jeff

[@kelvinhernandez4385]

Tengo un sebring 2007 y no encuentro el dasboard para ese me podían ayudar si un 2010 dasboard trabaja

[@jeffescortlx]

2010 probably won't work. I think 2009 is the latest compatible year.

[@kelvinhernandez4385]

@@jeffescortlx thanks

[@mikecarlin3396]

I wish to use your services, how can I contact you?

[@jeffescortlx]

Contact information is on the "about" tab on my channel page.

[@papa_6867]

Can you do mine?

[@jeffescortlx]

Sure

[@Hotrodelectric]

Certainly different from the electroluminescent clusters on '63-'66 Chrysler products.

[@jeffescortlx]

Yes I suppose so!

[@gplusgplus2286]

If only you were closer to where I live...

[@fuupdaass275]

You'd suck him big gulps?

[@brendenh2011]

Would you be interested in repairing another gauge cluster? I can't get in contact via email

[@jeffescortlx]

I've replied to all emails, what address did you send it to?

[@fatiherol6129]

Please sen me chıp order link or chıp number

[@jeffescortlx]

Chip number is in the video.

[@sidneyclark8091]

No contact button to click on.

[@jeffescortlx]

It's visible with Windows PC. Not android.

[@abelpolanco5976]

Avoid all this work and buy other cluster online

[@jeffescortlx]

What about the odometer reading?

[@HETPEZB]

"all that work" - I guess it would take 15 minutes with a coffee break for Jeff to get it fixed.

[@jeffescortlx]

@@HETPEZB plus I would trust a properly soldered heat sink tab over another defective OEM solder job that is ready to fail.